Penang: More than 1.5 million Hindu devotees from across the nation and tourists are expected to throng Penang for this year’s Thaipusam festival, which falls on Feb 11. Penang Hindu Endowments Board (LWHPP) Chairman RSN Rayer said all parties, especially temples and committees involved, are actively preparing to ensure a smooth progress of the religious event.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Rayer stated, “We anticipate welcoming 1.5 million Hindu devotees from across the country. Last year, the number reached one million visitors. People are not only travelling from across Malaysia but also from abroad, including Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, and more.”

Rayer further explained that the larger crowd is expected this year due to Thaipusam coinciding with the school holidays. He expressed his appreciation for the hard work of all involved parties, particularly the temples, in preparing for the event.

The press conference took place at the Sri Arulmigu Balathandayuthapani Temple office at Jalan Kebun Bunga. Rayer introduced a tracking system for the Golden Chariot, developed in collaboration between LWHPP and Digital Penang. The system, initially launched last year, has been enhanced for better accessibility through the “Pathrikai and Chariot Tracker” app.

Rayer highlighted the benefits of the tracking system, stating, “Last year, LWHPP introduced a digital tracking system in collaboration with Digital Penang for the first time. This enabled devotees to track the movement of the Golden Chariot before and after the procession using an app on their mobile phones.”

The Golden Chariot procession will commence from the Maha Mariamman Temple on Lebuh Queen at 6 am on Feb 10, arriving at the Sri Arulmigu Balathandayuthapani Temple the next day. It is scheduled to return to the Maha Mariamman Temple on Feb 12, arriving on Feb 13.